THE casting director could see Sol Heras had the X factor as soon as he walked into the room.

"For me, the whole experience has been a whirlwind, because it's my first ever job," explains the Cheshire-raised star of Rock Rivals (ITV1).

THE casting director could see Sol Heras had the X factor as soon as he walked into the room.

"For me, the whole experience has been a whirlwind, because it's my first ever job," explains the Cheshire-raised star of Rock Rivals (ITV1, tonight, 9pm)
.

"I had an audition on the Wednesday, a call back the day after and then I was told two days later that I was flying to Dublin the day after," recalls Sol, 20, who plays singer Luke Ellis.

"To be being given an opportunity like this is unbelievable. The only bad thing is my friends now think I'm rich and ask me to buy them drinks when we go out."

Michelle Collins and Sean Gallagher star as judges Karina and Mal Faith in the drama inspired by the world of the X Factor.

It's no secret that the two acts who get through to the final of Rock Rivals are Luke and a re-instated Bethany, played by fellow Cheshire actress Holly Quin-Ankrah.

Viewers will get the chance to decide who eventually triumphs via a free online vote at the end of next week's penultimate episode, with two alternative endings shot for the series finale.

Former Coronation Street star Sean hopes it will be Luke, mentored by his character.

He said: "I enjoyed filming the scenes when Luke won, because in those moments Mal was brilliant fun to play.

"He's hysterical, almost manic with glee and I enjoyed gloating. So I would like to see Luke win. Purely on a selfish, it's all about me, level."

Sol's (pictured) singing voice on screen is provided by a session singer, which meant the young actor had to learn the lyrics to a dozen songs and also how to lip-synch. "That was a lot harder than I thought.

"Thankfully for everyone, I stick to acting and do not sing. I was still given vocal coaching because I still had to be filmed singing, so the straining of my throat and mouth had to look believable.

Admiration

He added: "I am a fan of reality TV. I think people should have admiration for anyone who goes on these shows.

"To put yourself out there with a chance you'll get slated by the judges is very brave. I couldn't do it.

"The great thing about being part of this series is that I get a little taster of what being on one of these shows might be like - but luckily I'm prepared for the comments I get from the judges."

Fans of this drama won't be surprised to learn that things are set to get more complicated. That includes some further twists and turns involving Bethany.

Actress Holly made her TV debut five years ago playing Karen Young in Grange Hill, when she was just 14. She was originally asked to read for the smaller part of Dana in Rock Rivals but was cast as Bethany when it was discovered she could sing.

She said: "I'm a lot more laid back than Bethany, but I can relate to her motivation and commitment in wanting to achieve her dreams.

"As for Bethany's mother, I'm pleased to say mine is not pushy at all."

Holly admits she did get a little homesick while filming the series in Dublin.

She said: "It was great but I did find it hard being away from my friends and family. But it helped knowing there were so many of us around the same age and in the same boat, and it made us closer I think."

As for that final, Holly says: "Bethany doesn't just want it for the money like her mother does.

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